Revolving Door Church

This post refers to the following, previously published post


I struggled to find a functional definition for a church to missionally reach a specific community in a way that would be significantly different, i.e. healthier, than the way para-church ministries do this. While talking with friends, we have recognized the concept as the "revolving door church." Most people who enter will be pushed back out into the world to go, make disciples and other churches and their training and releasing is enabled by an established and dedicated community of believers and the pastors and staff who help facilitate this.

In this definition, it's necessary to point out that (a) everyone would be able to become members of the community and accepted as such. Beyond acceptance, (b) the target population trying to be reached is able to stay or leave as they feel God is leading them so no one has to tell you to leave. I write this and realize that this is a great definition of Joshua House.

These two points, (a) and (b), are both beautiful. Point "a" means that the community can be diverse, can be inclusive no matter what, and reflects that after we accept Christ - no matter our status, race, situation (such as being a student at OSU or not) we are united in the fact that we are citizens of the blood of Christ, redeemed by him. In this realization, we share more in common with these new brothers and sisters than with anyone at any time in the history of the world. Point "b" also is equally encouraging because it allows people freedom and room for God to call them to unique callings and places, including the possibility of staying in a revolving door church for as long as you feel led - and you won't be the only one.

Not all churches function in a way where both of these points are satisfied and I think that if a church wants to reach, they've got to try to satisfy both. This would be necessary requirements for a healthy, revolving door church.